My "Close to Home for the Holidays" Weekend in Pictures

I didn't venture far from the house this weekend. There was plenty to do close to home and in my home. Little by little on Saturday and Sunday we finished decorating the tree and the rest of the house. Saturday afternoon/evening the damp chilly weather didn't stand in the way of the Tri State Chamber of Commerce Rick Drew Holiday Parade. My daughter Kim and grand daughter Gracie lined up on Sussex Street in Port Jervis and marched with the United Methodist Church of Matamoras youth group all the way to the Matamoras Fire House. I met the parade as it crossed the bridge into Matamoras. Then drove to the firehouse to join Gracie and Kim. Many local fire departments participated in the parade with festively decorated fire engines. When we got to the firehouse the Salvation Army was serving hot chocolate and the chamber of commerce provided donuts. What a nice event for the whole area! I was surprised to see several friends including long time listener Michelle Smith.

When we finally finished decorating on Sunday I made a prime rib in the slow cooker. The meat had been in the freezer for a while so I was worried about how it would come out. I added some ground thyme to the pepper and salt I rub generously on the rib roast. Then tossed a sliced raw onion into the pot for additional flavor. I let everything go low and slow for six hours. Then used the drippings to make a savory gravy. Everyone loved it. This is the second time I've made prime rib in a slow cooker. It wasn't a fluke the first time. It really does come out great and it's really easy. I can't wait to have the left overs tonight.